The Kyrgyz Republic has recently adopted a law recognizing its central bank digital currency, the digital som, aligning with the nation’s strategy to embrace digital finance systems.
Digital Som Becomes Legal Tender
The Kyrgyz Republic has officially recognized its central bank digital currency (CBDC), the digital som, as legal tender.
On March 20, 2025, the Jogorku Kenesh adopted the constitutional law, which President Sadyr Zhaparov subsequently signed. The law titled “On Amendments to the Constitutional Law of the Kyrgyz Republic ‘On the National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic’” establishes a clear legal and operational framework for launching the digital som.
The law outlines that the digital som is the national currency in digital form and will be a recognized legal means of payment throughout the Kyrgyz Republic.
Pilot Program Rollout Expected in 2026
Following the legalization of the CBDC through a signed Constitutional Law, a pilot project for the prototype of the digital som is scheduled to launch in 2025.
This trial phase is aimed at testing the technical and practical performance of the CBDC system. The pilot project will evaluate various aspects such as user experience, platform security, and interoperability with the existing traditional banking system of the Kyrgyz Republic.
Future of Financial Technologies in Kyrgyzstan
The Deputy Chairman of the National Bank, Mels Attokurov, emphasized security as one of the main features of the digital som’s design. The government also views the digital som as a step towards financial inclusion, especially in remote areas.
The results of the pilot will inform the decision on a full rollout of the CBDC, with authorities expected to make the final decision by the end of 2026, depending on the trial outcomes.
Overall, the Kyrgyz Republic is taking steps toward integrating digital currencies into its financial system, which may enhance financial inclusion and modernize the economy.
